Movement dynamics of ground-dwelling arthropods in response to edge effects across the clearing-forest gradient

Edge formation from moderate retention forestry creates transitional zones that shape environmental gradients and influence arthropod movement. This study investigated the movement dynamics of ground-dwelling arthropods across versus along sharp forest edges in temperate lowland forests of Central Europe, focusing on buffer-zone mixed stands transitioning to oak dominance.

Directional pitfall traps with drift fences were deployed across a forest gradient comprising clearings, ecotones, and forest interiors, and operated from mid-April to mid-October 2023. A total of 8,643 specimens representing 188 species across five functional groups were recorded.